Autonomous Warehouse Organization Robotic System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A robotic system for autonomous warehouse organization, utilizing a patient lifting robot's core technology to optimize storage capacity and efficiency.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patient lifting robot patent (PCT/DK2017/050326) presented a solution for lifting and transferring patients. However, the limitations of this technology lie in its restricted application to the healthcare industry. The new inventive concept addresses the problem of inefficient warehouse storage capacity and organization by applying the core technology of the patient lifting robot to an entirely different industry.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The autonomous warehouse organization robotic system comprises a lifting mechanism adapted to lift and transport storage containers, including two vertical telescopic collapsible columns and one horizontal telescopic collapsible beam. The system is controlled by force sensing control, utilizing sensors such as load sensors, potentiometers, strain gauges, capacitive sensors, piezoresistive sensors, or piezoelectric sensors arranged along the columns and beam. The system also features an omni-directional driving mechanism for moving the robotic system in any direction on a warehouse floor. Additionally, the system includes an interface for human-robot interaction, enabling warehouse operators to adjust the lifting mechanism, set and reset movement speed, and monitor storage capacity in real-time.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the patient lifting robot's core technology to the warehouse organization industry. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the lifting mechanism and control system to accommodate storage containers and navigate warehouse floors, providing a unique solution for optimizing storage capacity and efficiency.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the autonomous warehouse organization robotic system could include variations in the lifting mechanism, such as using pneumatic or hydraulic actuators instead of electrical ones. Additionally, the system could be integrated with other warehouse management systems or data analytics modules to provide a more comprehensive solution.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The autonomous warehouse organization robotic system has significant commercial potential in the logistics and warehouse management industries, where efficient storage capacity and organization are crucial for reducing costs and increasing productivity. The system could be marketed as a standalone solution or as part of a larger warehouse management system, targeting industries such as e-commerce, manufacturing, and retail.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61G7/1019 |
| A | A61 | A61G7/053 |
| A | A61 | A61G7/1048 |
| A | A61 | A61G7/1061 |
| B | B25 | B25J5/007 |
| B | B25 | B25J11/009 |
| B | B25 | B25J18/025 |
| A | A61 | A61G2203/32 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Robotic lifting and transportation systems, with expertise in mechanical engineering, sensor integration, human-robot interaction, and adaptive control systems for industrial and medical applications
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with advanced degrees and 5-7 years of experience in robotic systems design, familiar with telescopic mechanisms, force sensing control, and adaptive mobility platforms across medical and industrial domains
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental similarity between patient lifting and warehouse container transportation as both involve precise vertical lifting, force-controlled movement, and human-machine interaction. The core technological elements of telescopic columns, sensor-based control, and adjustable interfaces are directly transferable between medical and industrial robotic platforms. The modifications required to adapt the patient lifting robot to warehouse logistics represent predictable engineering variations within a skilled practitioner's standard problem-solving approach.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,478 |
|---|---|
| Title | Patient lifting robot |
| Assignee(s) | Blue Ocean Robotics, ApS |